Bill Roll Lecture, Spring 2025

Near-death experiences (NDEs) are fascinating and transformative experiences that can occur during medical crises or close to death. These experiences frequently involve a perception of a reality beyond one’s physical conditions, with common elements including a sense of being outside of one’s body, feelings of peace, and encounters with mystical beings and deceased loves ones. This lecture will explore insights into NDEs gleaned from decades of research, including typical features of these experiences, their prevalence, and the transformative and lasting impact on individuals. Dr. Pehlivanova will share some compelling first-hand accounts that illustrate the power of NDEs and the timeless lessons they offer about life, death, and the nature of existence. The talk will also touch on key scientific and philosophical questions surrounding NDEs, including what they might suggest about the nature of consciousness and the possibility of its survival beyond physical death. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the transformative potential of NDEs and their implications for both science and spirituality.